Another campaign season

AUGUST 2016: The
campaign season is in full swing, the primary election is over, and
we all know what the line-up cards look like. There will be hotly
contested races, a few “gimme’s,” and no doubt a few surprises.

But speaking of surprises…after working hard to be re-elected the
past six election cycles I am running unopposed this time around.
Color me shocked! When I checked the final filing report during
filing week I thought there was probably a mistake or maybe just a
late report that would deliver an opponent soon. Nope, didn’t
happen.

That said, I will continue to campaign in my district to be sure
voters, especially new voters, know where I stand on the important
issues facing Washington state and the 45th District. We have
unprecedented challenges facing us, fully funding K-12 education,
assuring Washington remains competitive in attracting new business
and jobs, dealing with a mental health crisis, and addressing a
growing problem of homelessness, all while protecting the
environment we all cherish in this extraordinary state.

I have worked hard to represent my district for the past 12 years,
even when that required disagreeing with my party and the House
Democratic Caucus. That is never easy and I don’t look forward to
it, but in the morning I have to look in the mirror.

Many thanks for all of you who have stood with me these past 12
years, especially when the issues were tough. A long time elected
official said the toughest thing to do in politics is say NO to your
friends. But if you can’t do that then it becomes much too easy to
say YES to those you shouldn’t.

I am eager to return to Olympia and get back to work. Please stay in
touch, I can’t do my job without your help.